Did you ever think about being a big star in sports, especially the NFL, when you grow up? Do you dream of having your named called out by Commissioner Goodell on the first day of the 2018 NFL Draft like I do? If you have thought about this, you should read on. I think staying in school is the best thing for college athletes today - and in the future. Why, you ask? Let me tell you.

The first reason is to earn a degree that will let you have a job when your playing career is over (if you even make it to the NFL, NBA, WNBA, MLB or another professional league). Many careers in the NFL last less than 10 years. Injuries and new players coming into the league can make it rough on veterans who are trying to stick around. Bo Jackson and Robert Edwards are two players that were destined for "big time" careers, but had serious injuries that led to early retirement. Many others have been forced out because new players took their roster spots.

I've read that only 5.8% of football players in high school play in college and only 2.0% of those players make it to the NFL. Those are some small numbers. I think I would be better off staying in school.

If you stay in college for four years, earning your degree could help you out in the long run. When I went to the Super Bowl two years ago, I met a perfect example of this- Matt Leinart of the Arizona Cardinals. He won the Heisman, a National Championship and still decided to stick around to finish his college career.

That degree you earn, whether in law enforcement, architecture, or education could lead to a great job even if you don't make it to the NFL. You could be helping future generations make good choices with their lives with your work in law enforcement, education or whatever your degree is!

College can prepare you for many things: life on your own, a job, or a professional career. Make sure you look at all your options before jumping to the pros. If you do jump early, go back and get that degree! It will be worth it in the long run.